U.S. tsunami warning system needs major overhaul, report says

The United States’ tsunami system is in need of a major update, with ongoing problems that include outdated software, delayed alerts and poor communication to the public, according to a panel of tsunami experts. Its recent report sees “an urgent need for action” and advises the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) to overhaul aspects of the system to fix these and other pressing issues.

[…]

The 32-page report outlines several areas for improvement, but the most pressing matters involve NOAA’s tsunami warning program and its two tsunami warning centers, located in Honolulu and Palmer, Alaska. Namely, the report points out “perceived gaps and inconsistencies throughout the tsunami forecast and warning process.”

[…]

For example, the two tsunami warning centers in Alaska and Hawaii are relying on outdated software and methods, which limits improving the warning process — including estimating wave-generating potential from earthquakes and other sources. As new and complicated warning issues have arisen over the years, patchwork or “band-aid” fixes have been applied.

[…]

“Every day, year or 10 years that goes by makes it more likely that we are going to have a larger event that will really test the system,” said Corina Allen, chief hazards geologist at the Washington Geological Survey and a member of the panel.

What is needed, according to the report, is a “comprehensive, enterprisewide technology upgrade” of the warning system.

[...]